Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026
Category: Member News
Dear RESNA Community,
As we move into the summer months, I want to reflect momentarily on our recent observance of World Assistive Technology Day. Held annually on June 4, World AT Day shines light on Unlock the Everyday, a global campaign supported by 27 NGO’s calling for governments to increase support for people who need AT devices and services that foster their safety, independence, and participation in daily life.
At RESNA, we continue to promote technology and service delivery practices that improve the quality of life for people with disabilities. World Assistive Technology Day reinforces the importance of our collective successes to date, while reminding us that much work remains to be done.
With that in mind, I encourage all of us to carry the spirit of World Assistive Technology Day forward in our daily work. Whether you are conducting research, providing clinical services, developing technologies, or shaping policy, your contributions are valuable as we strive for a more accessible and inclusive future.
Looking ahead to July, RESNA‘s Annual Awards Ceremony will be held on Thursday, July 23 at 7:00 p.m. ET. Please join me as we honor colleagues and mentors who have contributed uniquely to the AT field!
As many of you are aware, my two-year term as RESNA President comes to a close on July 31 (time flies!)—making way for Rita Stanley to begin her presidential term on August 1. It has been a privilege—and a lot of fun—to work alongside so many terrific people who are so good at what they do. Happily, I will remain active within RESNA leadership for the coming two years as Immediate Past President.
Unfortunately, this also means that Carmen DiGiovine’s term as Immediate Past President is ending. Carmen has been an outstanding leader, mentor, and friend to all of us on the Board. Personally, Carmen has generously shared his encouragement, guidance, and rock-solid support throughout our overlapping years together on the Board.
To all of you in the RESNA family, thank you for your continued dedication to RESNA and the broader assistive technology community. Together, we are making a meaningful difference.
Warm regards,
Jim Lenker, PhD, OT/L, FAOTA, RESNA Fellow
RESNA President